Indo-Lanka ferry service on

Irangika Range

The ferry service between India and Sri Lanka, that was suspended due to terrorist activities over the last 30 years will resume today.

The first vessel 'Scotia Prince' is scheduled to leave Tuticorin in India and would arrive after a 12-13 hour voyage at the Colombo harbour.

India's Union Shipping Minister G.K. Vasan will inaugurate the service at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin.

A Ports Ministry's spokesman said the project will improve cultural tourism and business relations between two countries and will also immensely help small entrepreneurs who travel between the two countries with their business activities.

"It is a relief to be able to travel to Colombo from Tuticorin for a cheap price.

The service which is mainly established for pilgrims would be operating on a twice a week schedule initially to complete its 280 mile voyage depending on the weather conditions," he said. The vessel 'Scotia Prince,' has nine decks with a capacity to accommodate 1,200 passengers. It will be able to carry about 300 tonnes of cargo.

Over 40 staff on board will attend to customer requirements and about 25 ground staff will be at hand to help with check-in procedures, immigration, Customs procedures and baggage clearance.